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Protesters march in Llandudno over Betsi Cadwaladr UHB health plans

Around 300 protesters have marched through the streets of Llandudno to demonstrate their opposition to health service changes in North Wales.

There is anger over plans to move specialist baby care across the border to the Wirral, as well as proposals to close a number of community hospitals and some minor injuries units.

Campaigners today say they are also fearing for services at Llandudno Hospital, where national changes to doctors' training means there is no longer junior doctor cover overnight. As a result, patients requiring breast surgery will be operated on at Ysbyty Gwynedd or Ysbyty Glan Clwyd.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board says Llandudno wasn't part of the recent consultation, except for it being designated one of the hospital hubs, but confirmed 'a number of significant developments' will be taking place at the site.

Earlier this week the North Wales Community Health Council confirmed it has agreed not to refer the health board's plans to the Health Minister.

But it added there are aspects of the proposals that require 'further consideration', including the subject of community hospitals.

On Thursday, councillors in Conwy passed a motion of no confidence in Betsi Cadwaladr health board - a decision health chiefs described as 'disappointing'.

A spokesperson for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said:

We are aware that strong views continue to be expressed regarding our decision to proceed with a number of service changes in North Wales. These have been very hard decisions for the board to make, but we have a responsibility to provide safe and sustainable healthcare services for the people we serve and this is why change is needed.

– Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board spokesperson

Regarding Llandudno Hospital, the spokesperson added: "Llandudno Hospital remains an essential part of health service provision in North Wales for the local and surrounding population."